Universal Cheerleaders Association - Where America Cheers:: HomeSponsor Survival Tips

Sponsor Survival Tips

Be a Communicator – With a plan and an open pathway of communication, everyone knows what is to be accomplished and fewer problems will arise.

Stick to a Schedule – Make it easy on yourself, stick to a schedule for every practice so your cheerleaders don’t question what is expected of them each day. They should be on autopilot!

Be Consistent – Discipline with consistency and be confident in your decisions.

Lead by Example – Instruct cheerleaders on a code of conduct and follow it yourself.

Admit Your Mistakes – In any situation, if you try to take all the blame, people won’t let you. If you try to blame others and point fingers for the whole problem, they may not accept blame.

Know Your Stuff – Stay on top of business, always know what’s going on with the team. If you’re not educated in cheerleading, attend a coaches' clinic yourself – they will respect you more if you know what you’re talking about.

Wear “One” Hat – Be their coach, not their friend.

Stay in Control – Never Lose It! – How you handle pressure and unpleasant situations can define you as a coach.

Treat Them with Respect and Obey this Golden Rule – Recognize the desire, as well as their sacrifices that your cheerleaders are making for the team. Never put them down – encourage and teach.

Have FUN!

As a coach, you need to be keenly aware of the impact you will have on your cheerleading squad -- not just in high school, but in life, long after their cheerleading days are over. When you see them giving the best effort they can with a smile on their face, you will know that your leadership had a positive effect not just in their performances, but in life in general. Take these few key points with you during your coaching career and become the best coach you can be – one of great RESPECT and admiration!

“Never look down on anybody, unless you’re helping them up” -- Jesse Jackson